Hazardous Substance
A chemical, biological, or physical material that poses a risk to human health, property, or the environment. Regulated in the U.S. under laws like CERCLA (Superfund).
Related terms
Superfund Site A site in the U.S. so contaminated with hazardous substances that it is placed on the EPA's National Priorities List for long-term federal cleanup. Risk Management Plan Facility A facility that handles large quantities of high-risk hazardous chemicals and is required by the EPA to file a public plan describing safety procedures and worst-case spill scenarios. Chemical Spill An unplanned release of a hazardous chemical into the environment, often the result of an industrial accident, transportation incident, or equipment failure. Toxic Plume A spreading cloud or underground flow of contaminants moving away from its source through air, soil, or water.